Jim Croce Tune - These Dreams

[Rick Shepherd]

This was particularly challenging for me to learn and record. I recorded two guitar parts and panned them L/R, then layed down vocals on that. These Dreams

[Rick Shepherd]

I used a pair of Gefell M300 mics for guitar with the Avalon AD2022 preamp.
For Vocals, the UA LA-610 preamp and the Peluso 2247LE mic.
AD/DA conversion was using the UA2192.

[wedge199]

Wow Rick that was great
You can really hear the stereo separation.
REgards, Jack

[Rick Shepherd]

Thank-you Jack! I like the effect creating by panning two guitar tracks hard left and right.

[Rick Shepherd]

Any other comments would be appreciated!

[rmyAddison]

I was not familiar with the song, sure am old enough, so I Youtubed Croce and listened to These Dreams.

I think the recording quality is excellent and you do a good job with your cover, instrument(s) and vocals. But I really don't care for the song, which is absolutely nothing against you, I didn't like Croce's version either.

It's a disjointed piece to me, the music, especially with two guitars is very nice, but Croce's lyrics and phrases don't complement the music, and the "hmmms" are like he was too lazy to add lyrics.

So Rick, I think you did a very commendable job on a difficult song. The same production value on one of his better known songs would be a winner.

[Rick Shepherd]

I reposted the song without the second guitar part and without any effects or compression.

Rich, thanks for the comments. I realize this song isn't a well-liked song, but it did pose a challenge for me to learn it.

I reposted the song with one guitar part and no effects. I think it sounds better! These Dreams

[bcaylor]

Rick,

I listened to both versions. I really liked the first and then listened to the second and I agree with you, I liked it even better. Guitar sounded great (what was it by the way?), nice playing and good vocals. I think you pretty well nailed it.

Great job!

[Rick Shepherd]

Bruce, thanks for listening!

[Tomg123]

First post here btw.......both versions were super just a matter of opinion which one is better. Panning hard left and right is an effective way to record i like to it too. good job!

[Rick Shepherd]

Welcome! Thanks for commenting!

[Colbyjack]

Nice job.

Very "Jim Croce like"

The first record I ever owned when I was 10 or so was a Jim Croce record! My dad took me to a store (Fred Meyer on Lake City way in Seattle) and bought me at..... very found memories. Emotional to think about.

[DeadHead]

That is a very nicely done recording. Your guitar playing is very good as well. I've always liked this song. I think you have captured it well.

A very good acoustic guitar sound you're getting there and I'm listening to the MP3.

Rick, if you decide to humor me? I'd like to hear this song with a third guitar part. A version in which the vocal melody is replaced with a guitar part playing that same melody instead. An instrumental version. I think it would be very dramatic and moving.

Again, I tip my hat to you sir. Well done and thanks for sharing.

[Rick Shepherd]

Colbyjack,

When I was a kid, I used to fantasize about being able to play Croce's songs, along with The Beach Boys, John Denver, David Gates, etc. I wonder how well received by main stream public Croce would be if he emerged onto the music scene today?

Deadhead,

I like the idea of doing this song as you suggest, but I just gotta sing man! Ya Know?

Thanks for the comments.

[john clearview]

Deadhead,

As Jim Croce fan, your comment " I wonder how well received by main stream public Croce would be if he emerged onto the music scene today?" rang my bell. I have never thought about that.

I play Croce alot, two songs in each of my sets are his. I'd play more but I don't dare ( I try to bring a diverse program ).
The Croce songs really bring on the intense compliments in the breaks, however I play 40 plus crowds ( bar rooms /cafes ). I can't really measure the impact it has on the younger visitors.

John